What Does Your HOA Think of Backyard Chickens?

You’ve decided to take the leap. You’ve found plans for the perfect DIY chicken coop,
picked out a friendly breed and read your copy of “Raising Chickens for
Dummies.” Twice. A little online reading confirmed that your city
welcomes residential poultry with open arms. All set, right? Almost.

Urban Chicken Coops
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Turns out your homeowners association may feel differently. Although backyard chickens seem to be around every corner
these days, many homeowners associations still prohibit them. Sometimes
rules are rules and you may well have reached a dead end, but with a
little legwork and determination, a brood of your own may still be
within reach.

Know the Rules. Read the covenant. You may find the
language is open to interpretation. If “farm animals” are prohibited,
chickens may sometimes be kept as pets. It can’t hurt to have names
picked out when you make this argument.

Do your Homework. If nearby subdivisions allow coops, find out what variances may have been employed. Get documentation whenever possible.

Talk to your Neighbors. If they are amenable to
your plans, see if you can get it in writing. Petitions aren’t always
effective, but it’s a good place to start.

Detail your Plans. Make sure your planned coop is
attractive and adheres to any outbuilding guidelines that may be in
place. How many chickens will you keep? Will you provide a contained run
or will they free range? What is the distance between your planned coop
location and nearby residences?

Provide Facts. Do your best to present home
chickens in a positive light and dispel the myths and misconceptions
that surround them. Cite city rules favoring residential chickens.

Introduce Yourself. If a presentation to a
homeowners association board seems likely, a casual conversation with
its members beforehand may garner support and prevent any negative snap
decisions later on.

Be Upfront. Although saying you’re sorry is
sometimes easier than getting permission, fines may be levied and
ill-will between neighbors is hard to shake in the long run.

Best of luck. And when you are successful, make sure to share those
eggs with the folks you encountered along the way. Nothing says “thanks
for the chickens” like a note of appreciation accompanied by the eggs
they provide.

One last thing. If you’re considering a rooster, forget it. Never gonna happen.